Trunk comparison: Hyundai Elantra GT Wagon vs Mercedes Benz GLB

Key Differences (≥10%)

Four differences stand out from the data: The Hyundai i30 wagon offers +3.9 in (≈11%) more usable cargo length with the front seats upright than the GLB.

The Mercedes-Benz GLB, on the other hand, has a significantly higher trunk opening (+8.3 in / 31%), a considerably greater depth between the loading edge and trunk floor (+4.7 in / 1100%), and a higher loading edge (+3.9 in / 16%) compared to the i30 wagon.

All other differences (widths; folded dimension with seats folded +0.4 in, etc.) are less than 10% and therefore secondary.

Implications for Practical Usability

These differences affect which tasks each vehicle performs better:

GLB — Advantages: The significantly higher trunk opening and greater depth create more vertical space; bulky, tall items (e.g., boxes, furniture parts, large plants) can be accommodated more easily because the opening offers more room upwards.

The greater depth also allows for more usable volume behind the loading edge, which helps when transporting stackable or tall cargo.

GLB — Disadvantages: The loading edge, which is 3.9 in higher, makes lifting heavy items into the vehicle more strenuous and increases the distance over which items must be carried or lifted.

The greater depth (deeper trunk floor relative to the loading edge) can make loading and unloading smaller, heavier items more difficult, as more lifting effort and frequent bending are required.

i30 Wagon — Advantages: The lower loading edge and significantly shallower depth make it easier to load and unload suitcases and groceries; heavy items can be loaded and unloaded more easily.

Additionally, the i30 offers more cargo length (+3.9 in) with the front seats upright, making it more practical when transporting long items without folding seats (e.g., slats, skis, long furniture parts).

i30 Wagon — Disadvantages: The lower opening height means less vertical clearance for tall cargo; wide or tall items may need to be laid down or positioned differently. The slightly narrower width and opening width (each <10%) slightly limit very wide parts but are usually unproblematic in practice.

Practical Recommendation

If you often transport tall or bulky items upright or need more vertical volume, the GLB is advantageous. If you frequently load and unload heavy suitcases or groceries or want to transport long items without folding seats, the i30 wagon is the more practical choice.